True humanism for soviet children in the grim days of the war: The heroism of soviet teachers in 1941–1945
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33910/1992-6464-2026-220-71-79Keywords:
the Great Patriotic War, kindergartens, preschoolers, pedagogical work, preschool teachersAbstract
Introduction. This article examines the pedagogical work of Soviet kindergarten teachers during the Great Patriotic War. Studying the history of education in Russia is highly significant for contemporary pedagogical science, as the experience of past educators should be selectively incorporated into modern teaching practice to help address various challenges faced by the education system. This underscores the relevance of this research.
Materials and Methods. The study employed theoretical analysis and systematization, relying on sources related to child education in preschool institutions during the Great Patriotic War — including dissertations on the issue and publications by Soviet researchers and educators working in preschool institutions during the war.
Results. This article describes the essence of the pedagogical work carried out by Soviet educators with preschoolers in wartime kindergartens. Their work is explored from the perspective of moral, patriotic, labor, intellectual, and aesthetic education. The author emphasizes that Soviet educators did more than simply fulfill their duties; they provided preschoolers with deeply humane treatment and were guided by principles that every educator must adhere to, regardless of time and situation. Soviet educators relied on such principles as an individual approach to each child, consideration of the child’s personal characteristics, humane interaction, and pedagogical optimism — despite the war and its accompanying living conditions.
Conclusions. The scientific significance of this study stems from its presentation of new historical facts regarding the humanization of preschool education during the Great Patriotic War. The findings can be used to enhance the quality of teacher training and inform preschool teachers’ practice. The findings also contribute to popularizing the role of preschool teachers as key figures who have always been central to the education of the younger generation.
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